This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Scotland and China
19/02/2007
Scotland must step up its involvement in China if it is to make the most of the opportunities offered by one of the world's fastest growing economies, First Minister Jack McConnell said today.
In a speech to business leaders as part of CBI Scotland's China Challenge Conference in Edinburgh, Mr McConnell said:
"China is - and will be - much more than just the manufacturing powerhouse of the world. It is becoming a smart and sophisticated knowledge based consumer economy too. Indeed, 22 million new Chinese middle-class consumers are being created every year, creating new markets and new business opportunities.
"This provides a once in a generation opportunity for a country like Scotland.
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"Our China Strategy isn't just about drumming up business for gain over the short term. It's about helping us strengthen our foothold in China - and creating a firm foundation for Scottish businesses to succeed over the long-term.
"It's about raising the profile and understanding of Scotland in China - and about establishing and deepening links and partnerships between our universities, our research institutions, our schools and our businesses too.
"This will be good for business. But just as importantly, it will open a window to the world for young Scots, broadening and deepening their experiences and understanding of different peoples.
"We need more young Scots learning Mandarin, more Chinese students studying for Scottish degrees, more companies seizing the opportunities, and more partnerships to encourage the massive Chinese tourist market to visit Scotland.
"To put it another way. The door is open for Scotland - now we need to walk through it."